A collection of thoughts and often random ramblings that seem to fall from my head and onto the page during that wonderful adventure we call day to day life.

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Is that the message you really want to send?

In this “For Better or For Worse” comic Strip by Lynn Johnston, from January 2010, Lynn has two men, Ted and John, walking in the snow, chatting. Ted says, “Got anything for the wife yet John?” To which John replies, “No’’’ But I have some ideas.” To which Ted queries, “Diamonds? Pearls?” To which he is rebuffed with, “Nah. Elly’s far too practical for that stuff, Ted.” Then adds, “I’m thinking Food Sealer. You know, one of those wrapping gadgets that cover leftovers with plastic.” To which Ted says quietly, “Right…’ Before sharply adding, “And every time she looks at vegetables, she’ll think of you.” Can’t say I always agree with Ted but on this one he is pretty close to the mark. That said, apart from an engagement ring, I can’t say I have ever bought her Diamonds or pearls, some Opals, but no pearls! Although I did offer to buy her Tahitian Pearls, when we were there a couple of years back, to which she refused saying she would never wear them. Anyway, what this cartoon and I are saying is that when you buy something for your spouse or loved ones, put some real thought into it and give something that will induce positive and happy memories whenever they use it! Again, while it can sometimes be something practical, it also needs to be something that when they use it, they will think favourably of you. Sometimes it may be something rather impractical like Diamonds, and at other time’s it may be something practical, like a home appliance. The secret is knowing when either is appropriate and when it isn’t? So as we close now, what message are you sending out in the gifts you give? Is it all about the recipient of the gift? Or is it more about you, as the giver? Over to you for your thoughts now.

2 comments:

Agreed Lynx, sometimes something practical is ideal.That's why these days we tend to ask each other and the Kids what is something you really want or need. And then often put in together to buy the one wanted/needed item!

About Me

Mid 60's, married for over 43 years with 3 adult children. Spent 12 years working with an African Church, in the Xhosa homeland of Transkei, both before and after re-incorporation back into South Africa. Have been back in Oz since late 02. Since Aug 07 to Feb 2012 as Pastor of a small Independent Baptist Church.
From July 1st 2012 to May 13 briefly the "Director for Communication and Prayer Ministry" with the Slavic Gospel Association in Australia. Since then till late last year unemployed; and now officially retired
This Blog site is of a more general philosophical nature, than the others. For Blogs of a more christian philosophical nature, see my "Christian Ponderings" site.
The "Pacific Ponderings" Blog was designed for more personal Blogs and specifically, our South Pacific Cruise.